A dying mother's haunting last text message became the crucial evidence that led investigators to her alleged murderer in Birmingham, Alabama.
According to Daily Mail, Arkia 'Kia' Berry, 28, managed to text the nickname "Jaco" to a friend just before she was fatally shot alongside her 5-year-old son Landyn Brooks and boyfriend Eric Ashley Jr. in their car last summer.
Detective Jarvelius Tolliver testified that Berry's final message essentially named her killer from beyond the grave, leading investigators to 25-year-old Jacorrian McGregor, whose nickname matched the text.
The horrific triple homicide took place on July 13, 2024, when what was initially reported as a car accident in Birmingham's Echo Highlands neighborhood turned out to be a brutal murder scene.
Birmingham detective reveals crucial evidence in triple murder
Birmingham homicide Detective Tolliver provided testimony about the text message during a court hearing last Thursday.
The evidence proved instrumental in identifying McGregor as the prime suspect. Police recovered between 20 and 30 shell casings around Berry's bullet-riddled vehicle.
Detective Tolliver told the court that the victim had typed McGregor's name in a message just moments before she died.
The crime scene revealed Berry slumped across the front wheel while Ashley occupied the passenger seat. Their young son Landyn was found in the back seat directly behind his mother. The situation initially appeared to be a traffic accident before officers discovered the true nature of the tragedy.
Suspect's friends attempted cover-up after shooting
Additional evidence emerged through messages found on McGregor's phones, where his associates urged him to avoid detection. These communications suggested awareness of his involvement in the murders.
Security footage also captured a stolen green Kia near the crime scene, which was later discovered burned in what investigators believe was an attempt to destroy evidence.
Law enforcement made multiple attempts to locate McGregor in the months following the murders. The manhunt finally ended on February 24, 2025, when the US Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force successfully apprehended him. He now faces capital murder charges and remains in Jefferson County Jail without bond.
The relationship between Berry and McGregor remains unclear, as does the motive behind the shocking attack. However, a judge has determined there is sufficient evidence for the case to proceed to trial.
Young mother and son remembered by grieving community
Family members paint a picture of Berry as a devoted mother whose world revolved around her son Landyn. The young boy had been actively involved in football and was preparing to begin kindergarten before their lives were tragically cut short. Berry worked as a hairstylist and was known for her dedication to both her profession and family.
The brutal nature of the crime has deeply affected the Birmingham community. The loss of a young mother, her child, and her boyfriend in such a violent manner has sparked conversations about gun violence and public safety in the area.
Case moves forward as evidence mounts against alleged killer
Jacorrian McGregor, known by the nickname "Jaco," was identified as the primary suspect in the murders of Arkia Berry, her son Landyn Brooks, and Eric Ashley Jr. after Berry's final text message led investigators to him. The triple homicide occurred on July 13, 2024, in Birmingham's Echo Highlands neighborhood, where what appeared to be a car accident revealed itself as a calculated murder.
The case has now been cleared to proceed to trial, with McGregor facing capital murder charges. He remains in custody at Jefferson County Jail without bond as prosecutors prepare to present the substantial evidence collected, including the victim's final text message, surveillance footage, and incriminating communications between the suspect and his associates.
